NEW Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has given a boost to workers at Britain's last train plant.

One of McLoughlin's first moves was to hold face-to-face talks with global boss of Canada's Bombardier Transport Andre Navarri.

As MP for Derbyshire Dales McLoughlin has a keen political interest in the future of Bombardier's train plant in Derby.

It is likely to be positive for the firm as it bids to make trains for projects such as London's Crossrail and electrification of Cross-Country services.

Last year Bombardier lost out on the £1.5billion Thameslink train deal when the Government named Germany's Siemens as preferred bidder, sparking the loss of about 1,400 Bombardier jobs at Derby.

A Department for Transport source said: "The Transport Secretary knows how important Bombardier is to the UK's rail industry and Derby. He would encourage Bombardier to find ways to continue to invest in the UK."

The Transport Secretary knows how important Bombardier is to the UK's rail industry and Derby.

Department for Transport

The Daily Express has led a "Battle for Bombardier" campaign to save jobs at Derby, sending Downing Street a 75,000-reader petition.